DeAndre Hopkins, wide receiver for the Tennessee Titans, silenced doubters in the 2023 season with a remarkable comeback. After playing just 19 games in the previous two seasons, Hopkins amassed 75 receptions for 1,057 yards and seven touchdowns, proving he still has plenty to offer. Now, he’s letting NFL executives know exactly what he thinks of their previous doubts.
Hopkins recently took to Twitter to celebrate his success and seemingly take a shot at those who underestimated him. He retweeted a post with the phrase “In Ran We Trust,” a clear nod to Titans General Manager Ran Carthon, who signed Hopkins to a two-year, $26 million contract when few others believed in him. This move by Carthon proved to be a significant win for the Titans, revitalizing their receiving corps.
Titans’ Receiving Corps Poised for a Breakout Year in 2024
The Titans’ receiving unit in 2023 was largely dependent on Hopkins. However, the team significantly bolstered its receiving corps during the offseason. The addition of top free agent Calvin Ridley and veteran Tyler Boyd has transformed the Titans’ receivers into one of the most formidable units in the league.
This trio of Hopkins, Ridley, and Boyd brings a mix of experience, talent, and proven production. While questions remain about each player, the potential for a dominant season is undeniable.
Hopkins, at 32, may not be the same player who earned four Pro Bowl selections and three First-Team All-Pro honors with the Houston Texans, but his 2023 performance demonstrated his continued effectiveness. Ridley, despite a drop issue in 2023 with the Jacksonville Jaguars, still managed 76 receptions for 1,016 yards and eight touchdowns. Boyd, while not having reached 1,000 receiving yards since 2019, provides a reliable third option with a history of strong production.
The success of this revamped receiving corps hinges on the performance of second-year quarterback Will Levis. His ability to consistently deliver the ball to these talented receivers will be crucial to the Titans’ overall success in 2024. The pressure is on Levis to elevate his game and capitalize on the wealth of talent at his disposal.
The combination of a proven veteran in Hopkins, a high-potential talent in Ridley, and a reliable option in Boyd creates a dynamic and potentially explosive receiving group for the Titans. If Levis can effectively distribute the ball, the Titans’ offense could be one of the most surprising and productive units in the league.
